Younger defence force veterans in Gippsland now have a new place to socialise and network.
A new group called Young Veterans Sale has opened its doors, offering Gippslanders a place to connect with like-minded people who’ve previously served the defence force.
The initiative is the brainchild of Sale RSL and Community Sub-Branch, which has employed a coordinator to provide employment, training support and social events for younger veterans and their families.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said Young Veterans Sale had been established with funding from the Federal Government’s Supporting Younger Veterans grants program.
Mr Chester, who is also Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, visited the centre to learn more about the success of the project so far.
“The project caters for younger veterans, both those who are currently serving in the Australian Defence Force and those who have left and are integrating back into civilian life,” Mr Chester said.
“There are a number of unique challenges facing young veterans when they leave the defence force and transition into civilian employment.
“Young Veterans Sale offers employment support and also coordinates sporting and social events to bring young veterans and their families together.”
Young Veterans Sale coordinator Renee Robinson said the program was focused on bringing together young veterans so they could share stories of their successes and challenges as they reintegrated into the local community.
“We link in with other organisations including Gippsland Veterans Welfare Centre, Soldier On and RSL Active Victoria to provide easy access to a range of opportunities,” Mrs Robinson said.
“We know from research that our younger veterans like to get outdoors and stay physically active, so our events program includes activities like boxing, golf and kayaking in sessions that target family involvement.”
Anyone interested in learning more about the new program can contact Young Veterans Sale by email at youngveteranssale@gmail.com or by calling 0412 589 731.
